What kind of oil does a Dodge Sprinter diesel take?
The Sprinter diesel typically uses a fully synthetic 5W-40 engine oil that meets Mercedes-Benz MB approvals, most often MB 229.51 (with MB 229.31 also used on some variants). Always verify the exact spec for your engine and year in the owner's manual or by checking the vehicle’s VIN.
Sprinter models produced under the Dodge banner have spanned several generations and engine codes. Because the correct oil specification can vary by engine type and year, this guide outlines the common expectations and how to confirm the right oil for your specific vehicle.
Engine variants and MB oil approvals
The following notes help illustrate how oil specs typically align with engine types and years. Use the list as a starting point, but always confirm with the official MB specification for your exact engine code and model year.
- 2.7L OM647 inline-5 diesel (early US Dodge Sprinters): generally uses a fully synthetic 5W-40 oil that carries Mercedes-Benz approvals in the MB 229.x family (often 229.51 or 229.31, depending on the exact year and whether a DPF is present).
- 3.0L CDI V6 diesel (later Sprinters, including post-2007 updates): typically uses a fully synthetic 5W-40 oil with MB 229.51/229.31 approvals, especially on models equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
- Other MB-diesel variants used in Sprinter lineups over the years generally follow the same guidance: choose a synthetic 5W-40 that confirms MB 229.51 (or the specific MB 229.x spec listed for your engine in the manual).
In practice, many owners rely on a 5W-40 synthetic oil that is MB-approved for 229.51/229.31, as these specs cover modern Sprinters with DPF-equipped engines. Always verify the exact spec for your VIN to avoid misapplication.
Confirming the right oil for your vehicle
To ensure you’re using the correct specification, follow these steps. The list below outlines a practical checklist you can use when shopping for oil or consulting a service advisor.
- Find your engine code and model year in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s data plate; this identifies the MB spec that applies.
- Check the Mercedes-Benz MB 229.x approval(s) listed for your engine in the manual; note whether 229.51 or 229.31 is required.
- Choose a fully synthetic 5W-40 oil from a reputable brand that explicitly lists MB 229.51 (and/or 229.31) approval on the container.
- If you’re unsure, ask a dealer or a shop with Mercedes-Benz training to verify the correct spec for your VIN before changing the oil.
Following these steps helps prevent using the wrong viscosity or an oil that lacks the necessary MB approvals, which can affect performance and warranty coverage.
Oil viscosity and seasonal considerations
For most Sprinters, a 5W-40 synthetic oil is the standard recommendation across a wide range of climates. In extremely cold environments, some owners opt for an oil with a broader cold-start performance within the MB 229.x family, but you should not substitute a non-approved oil even if it seems a close match. Always base viscosity choices on the MB specification printed for your engine and climate conditions as outlined in the manual.
Oil-change intervals and tips
Oil-change intervals for Sprinter diesels that use MB 229.x long-life oils typically run longer than conventional oils, but exact intervals depend on engine, driving conditions, and MB guidance. Severe service (short trips, heavy traffic, dusty conditions, or towing) generally warrants shorter intervals. Always adhere to the schedule printed in the owner’s manual or by your MB technician and consider using oil life monitoring if equipped.
Practical maintenance notes
Keep these tips in mind to ensure you maintain the correct oil quality and level over time:
- Use only MB-approved synthetic 5W-40 oil, verifying MB 229.51 or 229.31 on the bottle label for your engine/year.
- Change the oil filter with every oil service to maximize oil cleanliness and engine protection.
- Record the oil specification and change date in your vehicle’s maintenance log to simplify future servicing decisions.
If you’re replacing oil between services or using a different brand, double-check that the oil still meets the MB specification required by your engine code.
Summary
Most Dodge Sprinter diesels require a fully synthetic 5W-40 engine oil that carries Mercedes-Benz MB approvals, typically MB 229.51 (with MB 229.31 as an alternative for certain years). The exact spec depends on engine code and year, so confirm with the owner’s manual or a Mercedes-Benz dealer using your VIN. When in doubt, choose a high-quality synthetic oil labeled MB 229.51 (or 229.31) and ensure the oil filter is replaced at the same time. Regular maintenance and using the correct MB-approved oil help protect the Sprinter’s diesel engines over the long term.
What kind of oil does a 2004 Dodge Sprinter diesel take?
If you are driving a gas engine Sprinter van, the recommended oil you need is Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-40. If you are driving a diesel engine Sprinter van, the recommended oil is Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30.
What kind of oil does a sprinter diesel van take?
Mercedes recommends 5W-30 oil for optimal engine protection and performance in the 2019 Sprinter 3500 V6 diesel. Using 15W-40, a heavier oil, can cause poor cold starts, increased engine wear, and reduced fuel economy. Always check the owner's manual for oil specifications.
What oil should I run in my 6.7 Cummins?
10W-30: Ideal for temperatures above 0°F, providing a good balance between cold start protection and high-temperature performance. 5W-40: Best for colder climates where the lower viscosity ensures better cold weather startup performance and protection against wear.
Is all 15W-40 oil for diesel engines?
Both 15W-40 and 10W-30 oils are multi-grade oils commonly used in diesel engines. The numbers in their names refer to their viscosity at different temperatures. The “W” stands for winter, indicating the oil's performance in cold weather, while the numbers reflect its viscosity at high temperatures.
